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Car Insurance Considerations When Moving House

By: Kade Phillips, contributing writer at kanetix.com.

If you're moving to another location temporarily (less than 6 months), there's usually no need to make changes to your car insurance policy - but, you should let your insurance company know - just in case. However, if you're moving house permanently, there are many factors that you'll need to consider when updating your policy. Many of these factors will have an effect on the rates you'll pay. In this article, we'll explain some of the issues involved with moving house that can influence your car insurance rates.

#1 - Avoid Policy Invalidation

Because many auto insurance providers determine your rates largely based upon where you live, you need to communicate your change of address when you move house. Neglecting to do so can invalidate your policy. If you move and are involved in a car accident during which you're injured or your vehicle sustains damage, you may be surprised to discover that your car insurance policy no longer offers coverage.

#2 - Rate Adjustment By Zip Code

One of the reasons why your car insurance premiums are affected by your location is that carriers often assign risk to specific zip codes. For example, if there is an inordinate concentration of drivers in a certain zip code, your rates may increase. Or, if you're moving to a zip code that has a high crime rate (auto theft, vandalism, etc.), your rates may also increase. Of course, that means that moving to a zip code with fewer drivers and a lower crime rate should result in lower premiums.

#3 - Reduce Your Rates Through Less Driving

Sometimes, moving house means you'll be driving less. Living closer to your job, your child's school, or other destinations you'll visit often (for example, a grocery store) can lower your car insurance rates. Providers understand that the fewer miles their policyholders drive, the less likely they'll be involved in a traffic accident. And that results in fewer claims.

#4 - Garage Vs. Driveway Vs. Street

Auto insurance companies receive claims for auto theft and vandalism every day. It's costly for them to pay these claims. Because your vehicle is more susceptible to theft and vandalism when it's parked on the street, providers consider garage (and even driveway) parking favorably. If you're moving house and your new location provides garage parking, your car insurance company may be able to offer you a discount.

#5 - Will Your Financial Or Marital Status Change?

Sometimes, moving house is associated with a change in financial or marital status. Both can affect your premiums. Because auto insurance carriers consider your credit score and overall financial health when determining your rates, an increase in your assets can result in lower rates. Similarly, carriers consider married people to be less likely to get into an auto accident. If you're moving house due to getting married, let your auto insurance company know. You may be rewarded with a further discount on your premiums.

When It's Time To Move

Moving house can be a stressful and frustrating event. There are hundreds of decisions to make and usually a limited time frame during which to make them. That being said, it's important that you take the time to update your car insurance policy with the details of your new location. That includes updating your address and the number of miles you'll be driving each year. Note adjustments in your parking arrangements as well as changes in your financial or marital status. Each of these factors can affect the premiums you'll pay. And not communicating these factors can invalidate your coverage.

Did you know that insurance rates can vary widely from one insurer to another? Only by shopping around for your car insurance coverage and your home insurance coverage, and getting quotes from several insurers, will you find out whether you're getting the best rates. Don’t pay any more than you have to - shop around, we make it easy. If you have a few minutes, compare your current auto insurance rate with multiple competing offers right now. Click on: lower cost auto insurance to get started. It could be the best 5 minute investment decision you make all year.


Kade Phillips is a contributing writer at kanetix.com.
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